James Harold Burks

James Harold Burks was born at Arnco Village, September 4, 1930 to the late Graydon Cline Burks and Agnes Borders Burks. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mrs. Christine Burks Banks. Harold always believed in hard work; as a youth he had a paper route around Arnco Village. As an adult, Harold dearly loved working at the Ford Plant. He found ways to make his work fun. Harold loved to tell how he would go up on the Ford plant roof to get a little sunshine and watch the airplanes go over. Harold enjoyed golf and working in his garden or flowers. The Burks yard is known far and wide for its beauty. He delighted in maintaining it. His vegetable garden was a labor of love. Harold shared his bounty with friends and neighbors. The okra Harold planted were from seeds he saved for 60 years from his Father’s garden. His beans, were Alabama #1 black beans, which were saved from year to year, too. The seeds were shared with numerous friends and relatives, so it is possible, you may have enjoyed some of them. After retiring Betty and Harold had the opportunity to travel with friends. During a trip to California, Harold got to hit the golf ball at Pebble Beach Golf Course. A highlight of his golf career; even more than his holes-in-one at Flat Creek and White Oak! Harold and Betty were some of the very earliest members of Unity Baptist Church. He was a very active member of the Church until his health deteriorated. He helped with the cooking of the meat for the Annual BBQ. He always volunteered to maintain the Church buildings and grounds. The Sunday School Class was one of his favorite parts of the fellowship. The friendships and activities were treasured. Harold was one of the original members of the Newnan National Guard post. He joined in May 1949 and served his Country until November 1962. The family respectfully requests that donations be made to Unity Baptist Church (or your favorite charity) in lieu of flowers. Harold is survived by his wife, Mrs. Betty Yearwood Burks, son, Audie (Denise) Burks and his beloved little dog Ellie. His brother, Mr. Clinton (Nancy) Burks and his sisters, Mrs. Imogene (Bobby) Rooks, Mrs. Elizabeth (Charles)Gordon along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. The funeral service for Harold will be on Thursday, July 16th at 11:00 AM in the chapel of McKoon Funeral Home with Dr. Phil Pilgrim and Ann Slaton officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 AM. Interment will be at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. Online condolences may be expressed at www.mckoon.com. McKoon Funeral Home 770-253-4580.

James Harold Burks

September 4, 1930 - July 14, 2015